Navy Federal Credit Union

Awards Received

  • Navy Cross

    Service:

    United States Navy

    Rank:

    Lieutenant, Junior Grade

    Batallion:

    Torpedo Squadron 15 (VT-15)

    Division:

    U.S.S. Essex (CV-9)

    Action Date:

    October 24, 1944

    Bureau of Naval Personnel Information Bulletin No. 338 (May 1945)

    The President of the United States of America takes pleasure in presenting the Navy Cross to Lieutenant, Junior Grade Earl Fred Lightner, United States Naval Reserve, for extraordinary heroism in operations against the enemy while serving as Pilot of a carrier-based Navy Torpedo Plane in Torpedo Squadron FIFTEEN (VT-15, attached to the U.S.S. ESSEX (CV-9), in action against enemy Japanese surface forces over the Sibuyan Sea during the Battle for Leyte Gulf in the Philippine Islands on 24 October 1944. In the face of intense and accurate anti-aircraft fire from the whole enemy formation, under extremely hazardous combat conditions, Lieutenant, Junior Grade, Lightner participated in a bombing attack on a Japanese cruiser. Fearlessly maneuvering through withering hostile fire of all calibers, he pressed home his attack and, by his expert airmanship, obtained a direct hit which caused certain damage. His outstanding courage and determined skill were at all times inspiring and in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.